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Prevent Wintertime Slips, Falls

Injuries caused by slips, trips and falls are a major burden to employers, especially during the winter months. Wintertime snow and ice bring an increased risk of slips and falls due to slippery sidewalks, parking lots and work areas.

Employees are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits when an injury occurs in the course of employment. Generally, injuries sustained going to and coming from the workplace are not deemed to have occurred in the course of employment, but if your employee falls and is injured in your parking lot it’s likely the employee is eligible for workers’ compensation benefits—regardless of who’s responsible for snow removal. The National Safety Council estimated that slips, trips and falls account for about 15 percent to 20 percent of all workers’ compensation costs.

The suggestions below, compiled from workplace comp insurer SFM, based in Bloomington, Minn., will help keep your employees safe from slips and falls this winter.

Parking Lots and Sidewalks

Consider illuminating walking paths.

Mark trouble spots such as snow banks and slippery curbs with police tape.

Remember to adequately salt walkways.

Be sure to remove re-melted snow and ice after the application of winter salt.

Entrances and Exits

Instead of trying to shoveland salt all of the entrances, consider closing selected ones for the winter.

Ask all of your employees to enter and exit from one or two doors. That will make it easier to ensure snow is removed, ice doesn’t build up and conditions are less hazardous.

Mop all entrances and exits regularly to prevent water accumulation.

Communicating with Employees

Talk to employees about things they can do to avoid slips and falls this winter. Tips include: